EU261 Flight Compensation

Check the flat-rate EU261/UK261 compensation you could claim after a flight disruption. Enter the great-circle distance of your itinerary and the arrival delay to see the euro amount that applies under the official regulation.

Great-circle distance or ticketed routing distance for the disrupted journey in kilometres.
Hours late at the final destination compared with the original schedule.

Educational information, not professional advice.

Examples

  • 1,200 km intra-EU flight delayed 3.4 hours ⇒ €250 compensation
  • 4,500 km long-haul flight delayed 3.2 hours ⇒ €300 compensation
  • 5,500 km flight delayed 4.5 hours ⇒ €600 compensation

FAQ

Does EU261 cover cancellations?

Yes. Cancellations that are not due to extraordinary circumstances may trigger the same compensation bands, in addition to rerouting or refunds.

What if the airline cites extraordinary circumstances?

Events like severe weather, political instability, or air traffic control strikes can exempt carriers from paying compensation even when a delay occurs.

Do UK rules match EU amounts?

UK261 mirrors EU compensation levels but pays them in pounds sterling; convert the euro figure for an approximate GBP value.

How are connecting flights handled?

Use the total distance of the ticketed journey and the arrival delay at the final destination—the compensation is calculated on the through itinerary, not per segment.

Can I claim if I accepted a voucher?

Airlines sometimes offer vouchers or miles instead of cash; you can decline them and insist on the statutory cash amount under EU261/UK261.

How long do I have to file?

Limitation periods vary by country—from two to six years—so file promptly and check the rules for the departure or arrival jurisdiction.

Additional Information

  • Eligibility requires the flight to depart from the EU/UK or be operated by an EU/UK carrier, and the disruption must be within the airline's control.
  • Compensation bands: under 1,500 km = €250; 1,500–3,500 km = €400; 3,500+ km = €600 (reduced to €300 if the arrival delay is between 3 and 4 hours on long-haul).
  • Keep boarding passes, booking confirmations, and written delay notices—they help prove the schedule impact when filing a claim.
  • Cross-link this calculation with the Flight Carbon Footprint estimator and the Travel Insurance Cost calculator to plan mitigation and coverage while you pursue reimbursement.

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